expression of amazement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expression of amazement" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a reaction or feeling of surprise or wonder in response to something impressive or unexpected. Example: "Her face was an expression of amazement as she watched the magician perform his final trick."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

But Truffaut's public expression of amazement at Godard's way of working seemed close to bewilderment.

The New Yorker

(The word jakers is an Irish expression of amazement and delight, similar to wow).

The New York Times

He mimed opening a magazine with an expression of amazement, then rushed over and gave the marketer a hug.

The New Yorker

Smith has retweeted an expression of amazement that H&F residents "have voted to increase their council tax", while at Conservative Home the Famous Harry Phibbs has attributed his party's defeat in part to Labour's picking up more disaffected Liberal Democrats, describing these as likely to be "public sector Guardianistas".

The Guardian

He hilariously channels the burred macho voice, and wears a priceless expression of amazement at his own awesomeness.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Nevertheless, Joy Fawcett has been encountering expressions of amazement ever since she came back after having her first child.

The New York Times - Sports

When the couple returns to the palace for the short concluding episode, the chorus of Beijing citizens responds not with Alfano's generic hosannas but with guarded expressions of amazement.

The New York Times - Arts

Photos of queueing consumers have become a familiar part of the hype surrounding any Apple launch, usually accompanied by expressions of amazement at the devotion of the tech firm's so-called "fanboys", or derision at their willingness to give up days of their lives to get gadgets slightly earlier than their friends.

Independent

Horner, 55, sitting in his comfortable Northrop Corp. office where he is manager of quality assurance, said the expressions of amazement from people of all colors are not uncommon.

Los Angeles Times

It is more an expression of philosophical amazement — a way of saying "wow" in the face of existence.

The New York Times - Books

The look of amazement on her face was priceless.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's reaction to an unexpected or remarkable event, use "expression of amazement" to convey a sense of wonder and awe. Ensure the context supports the intensity of the emotion.

Common error

Avoid using "expression of amazement" for minor surprises or everyday occurrences. Reserve it for situations that genuinely inspire awe or profound wonder; otherwise, it can sound exaggerated or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expression of amazement" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving as the subject or object of a sentence to describe a visible or otherwise discernible manifestation of being amazed. Ludwig AI examples show it often follows verbs like 'wears', 'retweeted', and 'mimed'.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "expression of amazement" is a noun phrase used to describe a visible manifestation of awe or wonder. Ludwig AI categorizes it as grammatically correct. Its register is generally neutral, with usage found in news, encyclopedias, and wiki sources. While the phrase is not very common, as reflected in its 'rare' frequency rating, it effectively conveys a sense of profound surprise and astonishment. It’s best used in situations that genuinely warrant a strong emotional response to avoid sounding exaggerated. The expert rating reflects the phrase's grammatical correctness, source authority, and usage consistency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

look of astonishment

Focuses on the visual manifestation of amazement, implying a strong degree of surprise.

gesture of wonder

Emphasizes a physical action or signal indicating amazement, often combined with curiosity.

air of incredulity

Suggests a sense of disbelief mixed with amazement, highlighting the surprising nature of something.

display of awe

Highlights the profound respect and reverence associated with amazement.

manifestation of surprise

A more formal way of saying "expression of amazement", focusing on the outward showing of feeling.

outburst of astonishment

Implies a sudden and vocal expression of amazement.

feeling of wonderment

Focuses on the internal emotion of amazement and wonder, often gentle.

state of awe

Suggests a condition of deep respect, wonder, and sometimes fear, induced by something majestic.

sense of bewilderment

Indicates a state of confusion and disorientation, often intertwined with amazement at something incomprehensible.

reaction of astonishment

A general term for responding with surprise and amazement.

FAQs

How can I use "expression of amazement" in a sentence?

You can use "expression of amazement" to describe someone's reaction to something surprising or wonderful. For example: "Her face held an "expression of amazement" as she watched the fireworks display".

What can I say instead of "expression of amazement"?

You can use alternatives like "look of astonishment", "gesture of wonder", or "air of incredulity" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "expression of amazement" and "expression of surprise"?

While both describe reactions to something unexpected, ""expression of amazement"" implies a stronger sense of wonder and awe than "expression of surprise", which can be a more general reaction to something unexpected.

When is it appropriate to use "expression of amazement" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "expression of amazement" when describing a reaction to something truly remarkable, awe-inspiring, or astonishing. It should not be used for minor or commonplace surprises.